Recession recovery means higher holiday travel prices

(NBC) - For the first time in five years, travelers are paying more for hotel rooms. Prices have already risen 5 percent this year.

Experts say that is because the economy is rebounding from the recession, and that means you should book as far in advance as possible.

Hotels are still competing for customers and adding extra perks during the stay, but bargain rates are harder and harder to find.

Despite the higher prices, both business and pleasure travel is up. In New York City, a record 50 million tourists made The Big Apple their destination last year.

To get the rates you want, experts say you should book rooms and flights at least four months in advance.